This beaded painting depicts an idealized ocean that is balanced and full of abundant life and beauty. Its inhabitants, six pearl-embellished fish cut from a Central American cloth, symbolize peoples of different cultures peacefully coexisting, united around a common source of light. The ornate, floral symmetry of the composition is reminiscent of Middle Eastern carpets; pieces of two vintage saris from India mingle with Hawaiian fabric and a silk scarf with an intricate Persian design to create a border of undulating waves. Vintage beads and buttons from China, Czechoslovakia, Italy and Germany combine with many hand-sewn crystals and antique crystal earrings to create a reflective surface that shimmers like still and peaceful waters.

A recent commissioned piece that features the ringstone symbol of the Baha'i Faith as the central focal point. The two large beaded butterflies represent the male and female wings of humanity; the four smaller butterflies are their offspring, radiating energy in every direction. Vintage textiles and beads from several cultures–including China, Costa Rica, India, Israel, Japan, and the U.S.–are brought together in this intricately stitched and beaded mixed media painting.

Untitled24" x 36"

Collaged piece on canvas that incorporates acrylic paint, direct stitching into the canvas, and a variety of recycled textiles, including embroidered handkerchiefs, vintage doilies, an antique brooch, antique earrings, and silk embroidery. The symmetry and pattern echoes the design and aesthetic of Persian rugs.

Open Sky18" x 15"

A vintage brooch and hand-painted doily are the centerpiece of this painting, which also features an ornate hand-painted frame and Indian sari trim. My own photographs of ferns were printed on to silk and collaged on to the canvas, which was then embroidered with Venetian glass beads, vintage lucite beads and plastic green beaded trim which belonged to my grandmother.

Coral and Pearls20" x 24"

This piece was commissioned as a wedding gift. The warm palette of rose, gold and coral, in combination with hand-embroidered coral beads and pearls, is reminiscent of a Bahá’í prayer: “Make Thou this marriage to bring forth coral and pearls.” A major element of the painting is a beautiful antique Austrian handkerchief, which was painted and embellished with golden pearls and vintage crystals and then sewn onto the canvas to form a diamond shape. The vintage brooch in the center was chosen because it has nine central pearls, and the number nine symbolizes unity and completion. It is surrounded by a circle of coral-colored beads, embroidered leaves from Pakistan, and German rhinestone beads. Repurposed pieces of vintage Indian sari fabric adorn the paisley motifs and form a border of sequined flowers. Hand-crocheted flowers and lace arch across each corner, and the overall effect of the piece is harmonious, intricate and balanced, much like a Persian carpet.